Rubber comes in many forms. It has the ability to bond with a variety of materials, including metal. The combination of the two can produce an inherently strong bond. This is applicable whether the rubber to metal bonding involves two or more parts. However, to ensure the process is successful, those who work with the two types of materials must be certain to prepare the part properly.
Part Preparation
Carefully selecting the right type of rubber is important. So, too, is the choice of metal substrate for bonding. However, the process may fail if the manufacturer fails to prepare the component properly before bonding. To assure the maximum level of bonding occurs, the fabricator, metalworker or manufacturer must adopt a stringent protocol. This is particularly important when the metal of choice is low carbon steel.
* Cleaning and degreasing: Use an alkaline cleaning process or solvent degreasing technique to remove the machine oils from the metal
* Blasting: By using aluminum oxide grit blasting, it is possible to remove any rust. It is also allows more surface area
* Apply primer: Some metals for the rubber to metal bonding process may require the application of a heat-activated primer
During part preparation, be sure to reduce manual handling. This decreases the chance of any surface contamination from the oils common to human fingers. Cotton gloves serve this purpose best, but you can also handle the component with a clean (the stress is on clean) rag. Before moving on to the next step, it is also imperative that all components are dry.
Rubber to Metal Bonding
Bonding rubber and metal can be a simple process as long as those who offer it follow a set procedure. While it is important to understand the properties of the metal and the rubber involved. However, if metalworkers fail to ensure proper preparation of the metal surface, the rubber to metal bonding can abysmally fail to live up to expectations in its application.
